Liz’s Handy-Dandy Guide to Framing & Matting Artwork On The Cheap
- Liz Morris
- Mar 10, 2019
- 2 min read
A common requirement for submitting artwork to an exhibition or a contest is for your work to be submitted fully matted and framed. This can be a very daunting requirement as costs of professional framing can soar well into the hundreds (even with a 40 % off coupon at Michaels Craft Store).
I was taught how to properly frame my work throughout my arts education, first through the efforts of my high-school art teacher Mrs. Neville and then again in the semester I spent in an interior decorating college program in a class focused on creating presentation materials.
Being a college student and with my thrifty nature I have devised some tips to help make your work look professional – without the hefty cost.
What you will need:
A Properly Sized Frame
You don’t need to spend a fortune on a brand-new frame! Dollarama and other dollar stores usually have simple frames that cost less than $10. If you scour your local thrift store you will likely come across some gorgeous frames that would be perfect to house your work.
(Bonus: If you pick up a thrifted frame, you will likely benefit from some complimentary pre-cut cardstock that you can use as a template).
Neutral Coloured Cardstock
You can get this at the dollar store! Or check the scrapbooking isle of Walmart or any art store. Cardstock is just a heavier weight paper; Bristol board will work too!
A Sharp Exacto-Knife, a Ruler, a Flat Surface, Painters Tape and a Pencil
The non-negotiable tools of the trade.
How to do it!
Open up your frame
a. You may have to pull up staples or nails to achieve this, bend them out of the way if you can. If you pull them out, safely set them aside.
b. If you chose the thrifted route, this may involve cutting through a layer of paper to access the back of the frame. Simply feel for the gap between the frame and the cardboard hidden underneath that will be close to the outer edge of the painting.
.
Cut two pieces of cardstock to the full size of glass of your frame.
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Secure your print to the first piece of cardboard using Painters Tape
.
Use a ruler to measure out the window for your picture on the second piece of cardstock.
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Cut out window in second piece of cardstock.
a. To avoid creasing or tearing your cardstock, scour out all cuts on your hard s
urface until you can pop the window out.
b. Use long steady strokes when cutting to avoid pilling.
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Place the second piece of cardstock over the first and pop it all into to the frame
.
Volia! You’re done!
Bonus: Getting Fancy With It
If you want to make your print look extra professional, you can achieve this by simply adding more layers of cardstock of coordinating neutrals. Try to stick to no more than three or four thin layers.
I hope this crash course in matting and framing helps you to submit your work with confidence!
You can also check out these great video tutorials linked below if you'd like to watch and learn.
Please let me know in the comments if you have any questions!
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